How to Get a Job in Spain as a Foreigner

How to Get a Job in Spain as a Foreigner

Are you dreaming of living and working in Spain? This article will help you learn how to get a job in Spain. From navigating the job market to understanding the cultural nuances, we cover everything you need to know to embark on your Spanish work adventure.

Understanding Spain's Job Market in 2025

In 2025, the Spanish job market offers exciting opportunities for foreigners, thanks to steady economic growth, an ageing population, and more open immigration policies. For example, in 2024, Spanish economy grew by 3.2%, one of the highest rates in Europe, largely driven by tourism, local spending, and the contribution of foreign workers. Reports say about 71.4 % of new jobs created between 2019 and 2024 went to foreigners.

Alongside economic growth, wages in Spain have also seen modest improvement, with a growth rate of 3% in 2025. Of course, wages vary depending on your job, industry, and location. Major cities like Madrid and Barcelona usually offer higher pay than smaller towns or rural areas. Additionally, factors like the demand for certain skills and collective labour agreements also play a big role in how much people earn.

What makes Spain attractive right now is its clear need for new workers. With a growing elderly population, there’s more demand for healthcare, support services, and home care. On top of that, Spain is making it easier for newcomers to work and live legally. The government plans to legalise around 300,000 undocumented immigrants yearly, giving them the right to work, contribute to the economy, and access public services.

Today, over 3 million expatriates are already living and working in Spain, including more than 1.6 million non-EU citizens. Whether you’re looking for opportunities in tech, tourism, healthcare, or construction, Spain offers both the jobs and the support systems to help you succeed.   

Is it easy to get a job in Spain?

When contemplating moving to Spain for work, we imagine one of the most pressing questions on your mind is: how easy is it to find employment? The answer is nuanced and depends on various factors, including your industry, skill level, and ability to speak Spanish.

In recent years, Spain's job market has faced significant challenges. The country has been grappling with a high unemployment rate, which is among the most concerning aspects for job seekers. Particularly troubling is the youth unemployment rate Spain has one of the worst youth unemployment rates in the European Union. This statistic reflects the difficulties faced by young Spaniards in finding stable employment, a situation that can also impact expatriates seeking jobs.

The high unemployment rate is partly due to the economic downturns Spain has experienced in the past that have had long-lasting effects on the job market, particularly for younger demographics. Industries that traditionally employed a large number of young people, such as tourism and hospitality, have been hit hard, further exacerbating the problem.

However, this doesn't mean that finding a job in Spain is impossible. The situation is more favourable for skilled professionals, especially those in high-demand sectors such as IT, healthcare, engineering, and business, as they are often looking for qualified professionals and can offer more opportunities compared to sectors like hospitality or retail, which are more saturated and competitive.

 

On the other hand, language can be both a barrier and a gateway in the Spanish job market. Because, while many international companies operate in English, a significant portion of the job market favours or requires fluency in Spanish. Hence, having at least intermediate language skills can greatly enhance job prospects, not just by expanding the pool of opportunities but also by aiding in social and professional integration.

Do I need a visa to work in Spain?

This depends on your nationality, as it differs based on Spain's immigration policies and agreements within the European Union. Let’s break down what this means for different groups:

EU and EFTA Citizens

Citizens from European Free Trade Association (EFTA) or European countries which include countries like Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, enjoy the freedom of movement. This principle is a cornerstone of the EU, allowing citizens to live and work in other EU/EFTA countries without the need for a work permit.

If you are from an EU country, you can enter Spain and start working almost immediately. All you need is to register with the local authorities and obtain a certificate of registration or a residence card. This process is straightforward, usually requiring just an ID or passport, proof of employment, and sometimes proof of accommodation or sufficient financial means.

Non-EU/EFTA Citizens

If you are a citizen of a country outside the EU/EFTA zone, you need a work visa to get a job in Spain. The type of visa required depends on the nature of the work and the duration of the stay.

Alongside the visa, a work permit is also necessary. This is usually obtained by the employer, who must prove that the job position could not be filled by a Spanish or EU citizen. This process involves various checks and balances to prioritise the local workforce.
 

Types of work visas in Spain

Each type of work visa has its own set of requirements and application procedures. It's important to carefully research and understand the specifics of the visa that aligns best with your situation and goals in Spain.

Employee visa

This is the standard work visa for non-EU citizens. It requires a job offer from a Spanish employer and approval from the Spanish Ministry of Labour. The employer must demonstrate that the position could not be filled by an EU or Spanish citizen. This Spanish visa is usually granted for one year, after which you can renew it. 
 

Highly skilled workers visa

This Spanish visa is for managers, highly qualified professionals, and graduates from prestigious universities. The visa is part of the Entrepreneurs Law, designed to attract talent and investment to Spain. To qualify, you need a job offer from a Spanish company, and the position should be considered highly skilled or technical. Moreover, this visa also allows for travel within the Schengen area and, after a while, may lead to long-term residency.

EU Blue Card

Similar to the U.S. Green Card, the EU Blue Card is for highly qualified non-EU nationals seeking to work in Spain. Applicants need a higher education degree and a job offer with a salary of at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Spain. This work visa is valid for up to 4 years and is renewable. It also offers a fast route to permanent residency for non-EU citizens in Spain.

Seasonal work visa

For those seeking to work in seasonal jobs, such as in agriculture or tourism. These visas are typically short-term and may have specific conditions regarding the length of stay and type of employment.

Student work visa

For international students in Spain who wish to work part-time or in a temporary job during their studies. The student visa allows you to work hours that are typically limited to not interfering with your study schedule. Additionally, your employer must apply for a work permit (compatible with your studies) as part of the process. 

Self employed work permit

For those who plan to establish a business in Spain. This type of visa requires a business plan to be approved and is part of the effort to foster entrepreneurial activities in Spain. You will also have to provide proof of qualifications and experience, sufficient funds to support yourself and licenses or permits depending on the business.

Digital Nomad Visa

Launched in 2023, the Digital Nomad Visa is for remote workers who want to live in Spain while working for companies or clients outside of the country. To qualify, you must have proof of remote work for at least 3 months before application, contract or documentation from a foreign employer or clients and a minimum monthly income of about €2,400. The authorities will also conduct background checks and require you to have health insurance. This visa is valid for 1 year, and you can extend it up to 5 years. It also makes you eligible for a reduced tax rate under Spain’s special expat tax regime. 
 

What are the requirements to work in Spain? 

If you're a non-EU citizen planning to work in Spain, you’ll need to apply for a visa and work permit that matches your employment type. Below are the requirements.

General eligibility

• Be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national
• Have no criminal record in Spain or your home country
• Not be in Spain illegally at the time of application
• Be in good health, confirmed by a medical certificate
• Secure a valid job offer or work contract
• NIE Number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)
• Social Security Registration
• Bank Account in Spain
   

Job offer & employer sponsorship

• A signed employment contract from a Spanish employer
• An employer who can sponsor your visa application by proving:
  
  
  • The job couldn't be filled by a local or EU candidate
  • They meet legal and tax obligations in Spain
  • The job is on Spain’s Shortage Occupation List (or the role is highly specialised)
     

For Employee visas, the prospective employer makes the initial work authorisation request to the Spanish authorities on your behalf.

Educational or skill requirements

• A university degree
• Vocational training certificate, or proof of specialised skills
• Valid professional licenses if required (e.g., healthcare, engineering)

Some work visas (like the EU Blue Card) require a higher education diploma and a job offer with a salary above a certain threshold.

Note: Any documents not originally in Spanish must be accompanied by sworn (certified) translations. Meeting all these requirements is essential to secure your work visa and begin your career in Spain legally and smoothly.

The process of landing a Job in Spain

• Decide on the type of job: Reflect on your skills, qualifications, and the type of work you enjoy. This will guide you in identifying the industries and roles suitable for you. 
  
   
• Understand Spanish work culture and professional differences: Spanish work culture values personal relationships, and a balanced lifestyle which may include a siesta (afternoon break). Being aware of these cultural nuances can be beneficial.
  
   
• Fine-tune your resume: Tailor your resume to highlight skills and experiences relevant to the jobs you're applying for. Also, ensure your LinkedIn and other professional profiles are up-to-date, as they are commonly used for recruitment. 
  
   
• Find job posting through staffing agencies and expat groups.
  
   
• Crush the Interview Process: Research the company and the role. Practice your answers to common interview questions. Research the company and the role. Practice your answers to common interview questions.
  
   
• Apply for any needed documentation like your work permit, visa, NIE, and Social Security Number after landing the job.

Step-by-step process of applying for a work visa in Spain

Applying for a work visa in Spain can seem complex, but you can simplify things by following specific steps. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Secure a job offer

Before you can apply for a work visa, you must have a formal job offer from a Spanish employer. This means you have to apply for jobs in Spain for foreigners by submitting a cover letter, resume, pass an interview, and get hired. Once you secure a job, the contract must be for a role that either appears on Spain’s skills shortages list or is highly specialised. Your employer must also agree to sponsor your visa process.  In some cases, your employer will need to demonstrate that they could not find a suitable candidate for the position within Spain or the EU/EEA. This is known as a "labor market test."

Step 2: Employer submits work authorisation request

Your employer must apply for a work and residence authorisation on your behalf at the Provincial Office for Labour and Immigration in Spain (Oficina de Extranjería). During the application, they’ll need to provide your contract, company registration, and proof that the job cannot be filled locally. This process usually takes 1–3 months for approval.

Step 3: Apply at the Spanish embassy or consulate

Once the Spanish authorities approve the request, your employer will receive a favourable resolution, and you’ll be notified to continue the process at your local consulate. You must then submit your visa application at the Spanish embassy or consulate in your home country. When applying for the work visa, you must provide some documents like a Passport, approved work authorisation, a job contract, and others required by the authorities. If approved, your visa will be stamped in your passport. You’ll usually have 1–3 months to enter Spain and begin work.

Step 4: Register for your NIE and Social Security  

After arriving in Spain, you must complete the following within 30 days:

• Register your address at your local town hall (empadronamiento)
   
• Apply for your Foreigner Identity Number (NIE) and residence card (TIE) at a police station
   
• Register with the Spanish social security system through your employer
   

Note: Many documents submitted to Spanish authorities (especially medical certificates and criminal record checks) will need to be officially translated into Spanish by a sworn translator (traductor jurado) and often legalised (apostilled or consular legalised) in your home country.

Documents required before moving to Spain for work as a foreigner

1. A job offer or contract from a Spanish employer or an employer resident in Spain.
2. A valid work permit and visa application.
3. Valid passport.
4. Criminal record certificate.
5. Medical certificate
6. Proof of adequate finance.
7. Relevant educational and professional qualifications.
8. Health insurance documentation.
9. Birth certificates
10. Marriage certificate (if applicable).
11. Housing arrangements.
12. Driver’s license and vehicle contract if you plan to drive in Spain (to be obtained on arrival). 
13. Sworn translation of all foreign-issued documents. If your official documents (like birth certificates, marriage certificates, academic degrees) are not in Spanish, you will need to get them translated by a sworn translator in Spain. Sworn translation services in Spain provide legally recognised translations essential for bureaucratic processes. 

Where to find jobs in Spain

If you're looking to work in Spain, especially as a non-Spanish speaker, there are several online platforms to help you find job opportunities. Here are some

• LinkedIn
• InfoJobs
• XpatJobs
• Indeed
• Glassdoor
• Turijobs 
• Expat communities
• Job fairs
• Recruitment agencies

Entry-level and English-speaking job opportunities

Entry-Level and English-Speaking Job Opportunities

Even if you're not fluent in Spanish, there are entry-level positions in Spain that require English proficiency.Here are some

Tech Industry

The tech sector in Spain is growing, with companies in major cities like Barcelona and Madrid seeking English-speaking professionals. Some position available includes software development, data analysis, and IT support. 

Teaching English

Teaching English is a popular job for English speakers in Spain. Programs like the North American Language and Culture Assistants Program (NALCAP) place assistants in public schools, while private language academies also hire English teachers. A TEFL certification is often required. 

Tourism and hospitality industries

Spain's tourism and hospitality industries offers numerous opportunities in hospitality. Hotels, especially in tourist-heavy areas like the Costa Brava and the Balearic Islands, often seek English-speaking staff. Some available roles include reception, guest services, and management.

Living and working in Spain: Culture, contracts & benefits

Working in Spain means more than just finding a job, you need to also understand the work culture, employment laws, and what benefits you're entitled to as an employee. Here’s what you need to know:

Work culture in Spain

Spanish work culture values professionalism but also places strong emphasis on work-life balance.

• Working hours are typically 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though some businesses still observe a midday break (“siesta”), especially in smaller towns.
   
• Punctuality is appreciated, but flexibility is common.
   
• There’s a strong social element in professional life, expect informal interactions and team lunches.
   
• Hierarchy exists, but collaboration and group decisions are valued.

Types of employment contracts

Spain offers several types of employment contracts, each with specific rules and benefits:

• Indefinite (permanent) contracts: This is the most secure form of employment offered to foreigners in Spain. It includes full employee benefits and severance protections
   
• Temporary (fixed-term) contracts: This type of contract is common in hospitality, tourism, and seasonal sectors. Unlike fixed contracts, it offers limited duration, but still include basic labour rights.
   
• Training or internship contracts: This is for students or recent graduates, and it offers lower pay, shorter hours, but valuable experience
  
   

Employee rights and protections

Spanish labour laws are worker-friendly. Key rights include:

• Minimum wage: Up to €1,134/month
   
• Maximum 40-hour work week
   
• Overtime pay or compensatory time off
   
• Annual leave: At least 30 calendar days per year
   
• Maternity/paternity leave: Paid and protected by law
   
• Protection from unfair dismissal: Especially for permanent contracts
   

Public holidays and time off

Employees in Spain enjoy both national and regional holidays.

• Around 14 paid public holidays annually
   
• Paid vacation is legally guaranteed (not including holidays)
   
• Additional leave may be granted for weddings, moving house, or family emergencies

Social security and benefits

When working legally in Spain, you're enrolled in the Social Security system (Seguridad Social), which provides:

• Healthcare coverage
• Unemployment benefits
• Pensions and disability insurance
• Maternity/paternity benefits

Your employer will deduct social security contributions from your salary and contribute on your behalf.

Ready to get a  job in Spain? Request a quote to get sworn (certified) translation services for your Spanish work visa application process. 

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